Herb Spotlight: Wood Betony for the Brain

This herb has such a spritely name and is said to have immense healing properties. There are many old phrases from Spain to Italy citing the encompassing powers of wood betony but today it isn’t as highly regarded. In America this isn’t a highly known herb, but I saw it in a tincture and became very interested in it’s healing powers. Specifically this is a great option for headaches and migraines and is also used to fight the common cold. The name is derived from Celtic Bew meaning head and ton meaning good, it’s good for the head.

Breakdown of Wood Betony

Scientific Name: Stachys officinalis [aka: betony, bishops-wert]

Magickal Stats: Elementally Earth, ruled by Jupiter & Mercury

Improves Function Of:

Nervous System

Respiratory System

Aides in Relieving Symptoms of:

Cough, Bronchitis & Asthma

Nervousness & Anxiety

Headache, Toothache & Neuralgia

Colic & Gastrointestinal Spasm

Recovery from Addiction

Stress, Anxiety & Dizziness

Assists Spiritually With:

Protect & Purify Any Space

Connect & Channel Elementals

Encourage fairness & justice

Cleanse auric energies

How Does it Work?

The chemicals in Betony are said to decrease blood pressure which is probably why it aides in ailments of the head. It is commonly used to aide in anxiety and neuralgia, both brain based ailments. Aside from the listed symptom relief, Betony can also relieve diarrhea, kidney stones and epilepsy among other ailments.

What Do I Do With it?

For centuries, the leaves of wood betony have been used to create a drinkable tonic. Find the herb growing in temperate woods and thickets. It has a lingering warm taste that is both a sign of its place in the mint family and it’s warming, healing properties. Make an oil or a tonic to be taken alone or added to tinctures for countless healing benefits. Anoint yourself with the oil to cleanse the auric field. It is an obscure herb that is very hard to find, inquire with the apothecary you go to before making any long trips to find betony.